The Performing Musicians Employers Association of Nigeria (PMAN), Plateau State Chapter, has declared its support for the upcoming “Back To The Roots” Musical Concert, a major entertainment highlight of the 2025 Jos National Trade Fair.
PMAN’s Governor, Comrade Color Humphrey, made this commitment on Monday at the Jos Polo Field during a meeting with Mrs. Bolcit Barshep Amakiri, the CEO of Anista Marketing and Events Limited, consultants/organizers of the trade fair.
During the meeting, Mrs. Amakiri emphasized the need for greater collaboration in strengthening the entertainment industry in Plateau State. She reiterated her passion for revamping the sector and called for more partnerships to support local artists and creative talents.
In response, PMAN reaffirmed its commitment to artist development, announcing plans to support the “Back To The Roots” platform not only to entertain but also to educate upcoming musicians on industry best practices, harmful norms, and the business side of music.
The “Back To The Roots” Musical Concert will run daily throughout the 16-day Jos National Trade Fair from March 11 to March 26, 2025, at the Jos Polo Field. The event will feature performances from top regional artists and rising stars, offering a mix of cultural and contemporary music.
The support from PMAN is expected to enhance the quality of performances and create more opportunities for artists to gain exposure. As the trade fair starts, excitement continues to build for what promises to be a landmark event in Plateau State’s entertainment and business sectors.
The highly anticipated 2025 Jos National Trade Fair is set to begin tomorrow, March 11, 2025, at the Jos Polo Field, promising an exciting 16-day showcase of business, innovation, and entertainment. Organized by the Plateau State Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (PLACCIMA) in collaboration with Anista Marketing and Events Limited, the event is expected to attract exhibitors, investors, and visitors from across Nigeria and beyond.
With the theme “Driving Innovation and Technology to Unlock the Hidden Potentials of MSMEs,” the trade fair aims to promote entrepreneurship, foster business partnerships, and highlight the role of technology in economic growth. Exhibitors will display a wide range of products and services, offering visitors unique networking and investment opportunities.
Exciting Highlights to Look Forward To: Daily Exhibitions – Featuring local and international businesses showcasing their products and services. “Back to the Roots” Musical Concerts – A daily entertainment segment featuring top artists, DJs, and comedians. Children’s Fiesta – A dedicated space for kids with fun games, rides, and educational activities. Themed Nights & Special Events – Comedy shows, live bands, reggae night, old school night, and more. Event Schedule & Ticketing: Exhibitions: 8:00 AM daily (Gate Fee: ₦200) Concerts: 6:00 PM daily (Gate Fee: ₦500)
The Jos National Trade Fair is endorsed by the Plateau State Government and is set to be one of the biggest business and entertainment events of the year. Whether you’re a business owner, investor, or visitor looking for a vibrant experience, this is an event not to be missed!
For inquiries on sponsorship, vendor space, and participation, contact 08033486915, 08062559912, 08053716461.
Stay tuned as Jos comes alive with trade, culture, and entertainment!
Jos, Nigeria – The Plateau State Board of Internal Revenue Service (PSIRS) has announced a significant milestone in the state’s revenue generation, recording a historic ₦31.14 billion in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) as of the close of business in 2024.
PSIRS Chairman Jim Pam Wayas confirmed this achievement while addressing journalists at the board’s conference hall in Jos on Friday. He noted that for the first time in Plateau State’s history, revenue collection had surpassed the ₦30 billion mark, marking a significant leap from previous years.
Steady Growth in Revenue Collection
Wayas highlighted the steady improvement in the state’s IGR over the past few years.
“WHEN THIS ADMINISTRATION STARTED IN 2023, I JOINED HALFWAY THROUGH THE YEAR, AND A LOT HAS HAPPENED SINCE THEN. IN 2022, TOTAL REVENUE GENERATED WAS ₦15.9 BILLION. BY THE END OF 2023, WE INCREASED IT TO ₦25.8 BILLION. HOWEVER, AS OF THE CLOSE OF 2024, WE RECORDED ₦31.14 BILLION IN REVENUE,” HE STATED.
Looking ahead, the Plateau State Government has set an ambitious ₦52 billion revenue target for 2025, signaling its commitment to further boosting internally generated revenue.
“WE NEED TO START 2025 ON A STRONG NOTE, AND WE ARE ON THE RIGHT PATH. IN JANUARY ALONE, WE COLLECTED ABOUT ₦3.3 BILLION, ONE OF THE HIGHEST AMOUNTS EVER COLLECTED IN A SINGLE MONTH. COMPARED TO JANUARY 2024, WHEN WE GENERATED ABOUT ₦1.6 BILLION, THIS REPRESENTS A MAJOR IMPROVEMENT,” WAYAS NOTED.
Challenges with Federal Allocation
The PSIRS chairman also addressed concerns about declining federal allocations to Plateau State, citing debts incurred in previous years as a key factor.
“MANY PEOPLE ARE ASKING ABOUT THE REVENUE BEING GENERATED INTERNALLY AND WHAT IS COMING FROM THE FEDERAL ALLOCATION. THE TRUTH IS THAT FEDERAL ALLOCATION HAS BEEN DECLINING DUE TO DEBTS, MANY OF WHICH WERE TAKEN WHEN THE EXCHANGE RATE WAS AROUND ₦440 TO $1. TODAY, THE EXCHANGE RATE HAS FLUCTUATED, SOMETIMES REACHING AS HIGH AS ₦2,000 TO $1,” HE EXPLAINED.
He further noted that the state’s subsidy allocation has been in the negative for the past six months, as federal deductions significantly reduce the actual amount Plateau State receives.
Expanding Revenue Sources
To counter these financial challenges, Wayas emphasized the need to broaden the state’s revenue base by identifying new sources and plugging loopholes in tax collection.
“WE ARE NOW EXPLORING OUR INTERNALLY GENERATED REVENUE (IGR) POTENTIAL, AND I MUST COMMEND GOVERNOR CALEB MUTFWANG FOR TAKING BOLD STEPS TO DO THINGS DIFFERENTLY. THE ENTIRE REVENUE SYSTEM IS UNDERGOING TRANSFORMATION, AND WE ARE IDENTIFYING UNTAPPED REVENUE SOURCES,” HE SAID.
He added that the PSIRS is strengthening collaboration with key stakeholders such as the Joint Tax Board, Tax Appeal Tribunal, and the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to enhance seamless revenue collection.
As Plateau State sets its sights on achieving its ₦52 billion revenue target for 2025, efforts are being intensified to ensure sustainable economic growth and infrastructural development for its citizens.
The 2025 Jos Trade Fair promises to be a family-friendly event, with a special Children’s Fiesta designed to entertain and engage young attendees. Organized as part of the 16-day fair at the Jos Polo Field, the fiesta will offer a variety of fun-filled activities for children of all ages.
Highlights of the Children’s Fiesta include:
Games & Competitions – Exciting games with prizes to be won. Face Painting & Art Sessions – Creative activities to spark children’s imagination. Bouncing Castles & Rides – Safe and thrilling attractions for kids. Music & Dance – Engaging performances to keep the energy high. Educational Activities – Interactive sessions to inspire and educate young minds.
The Children’s Fiesta will run daily throughout the trade fair, ensuring that families can enjoy a vibrant atmosphere filled with fun and learning. Parents and guardians are encouraged to bring their kids along for a memorable experience.
The Jos Trade Fair 2025, organized by PLACCIMA in collaboration with Anista Marketing and Events Limited, is committed to creating an inclusive environment where both business and leisure can thrive.
For more information on participation and ticketing, contact 08033486915, 08062559912, 08053716461.
Excitement is building as the countdown to the 2025 Jos Trade Fair officially begins! Set to take place from March 11 to March 26, 2025, at the Jos Polo Field, this highly anticipated event promises an exciting mix of commerce, networking, and entertainment.
Organized by the Plateau State Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (PLACCIMA) in collaboration with Anista Marketing and Events Limited, the 16-day trade fair will bring together exhibitors, entrepreneurs, and investors from across Nigeria and beyond. This year’s theme, “Driving Innovation and Technology to Unlock the Hidden Potentials of MSMEs,” highlights the role of technology in transforming small and medium-scale businesses.
What to Expect Diverse Exhibitions – Showcasing local and international products, services, and innovations. Daily Musical Concerts – Featuring top artists and entertainers at the “Back to the Roots” concert series. Children’s Fiesta – Fun-filled activities for young attendees. Themed Nights & Side Attractions – Comedy shows, DJ nights, and cultural showcases.
With business opportunities, entertainment, and cultural experiences all in one place, the 2025 Jos Trade Fair is set to be a major economic and social event for Plateau State.
For sponsorship, vendor space, and participation details, contact 08033486915, 08062559912, 08053716461. Stay tuned as the countdown continues!
Jos, Plateau State – March 5, 2025 – In a significant step toward environmental sustainability and youth empowerment, GLOFTECH LTD, led by CEO Samuel David Sambo, paid a courtesy visit to the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Hospitality in Jos today. The visit marked the beginning of a promising collaboration aimed at promoting a greener, healthier Plateau State through innovative recycling initiatives.
Hon. Cornelius Doeyok, Commissioner of Tourism, Culture, and Hospitality, alongside key ministry directors, warmly received Sambo and his team. The focus of the meeting was GLOFTECH LTD’s groundbreaking project to recycle used car tires, a initiative that promises to address environmental challenges while beautifying the state and boosting tourism.
Commissioner Doeyok lauded the project, emphasizing its potential to protect Jos’s scenic roads, support tree-planting efforts, and enhance the state’s appeal to tourists. “This initiative aligns perfectly with our mission to showcase Plateau State’s rich cultural heritage and natural attractions while fostering sustainable development,” he said.
The project also aims to combat the harmful practice of burning used tires, which poses severe risks to human health and the environment. Through awareness campaigns and youth training programs, GLOFTECH LTD seeks to promote sustainable waste management practices and create a cleaner, healthier community.
Christiana Yilbial, Director of Administration, and other ministry directors, including Telzing Nden (Arts and Culture) and Janet Ishaya (Tourism), were present at the meeting. They expressed their support for the initiative, recognizing its potential to empower youths and drive innovation in the state.
GLOFTECH LTD has a proven track record of youth empowerment, having trained and certified over 1,000 young people in ICT skills. Although funding challenges have slowed efforts to expand tire recycling training, the company remains committed to its mission. A significant number of youths in Plateau State have already been trained in this eco-friendly skill, with plans for further expansion.
The ministry has called for an immediate management meeting to explore deeper collaboration with GLOFTECH LTD. This partnership is expected to make a lasting impact on Jos’s environment, community, and tourism sector, promoting sustainability, environmental protection, and innovation.
As Plateau State paves the way for a greener future, this initiative stands as a testament to the power of public-private partnerships in driving positive change. Together, GLOFTECH LTD and the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Hospitality are setting a new standard for environmental stewardship and youth empowerment in Nigeria.
The Kedrick Scribner Foundation Inc., a United States nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering Nigerians through sustainable initiatives, is inviting Dr. Tyrone D. Taborn, Publisher and Chairman of Career Communications Group Inc., to Nigeria. Dr. Taborn’s visit aims to explore the possibility of establishing a STEM conference inspired by the prestigious BEYA STEM Conference, which focuses on creating career opportunities in technology and engineering for Nigerians.
Kedrick Scribner and Miranda having a memorable time with some of the widows at the Widows Mite’s 5.0 event
In conjunction with this initiative, the Kedrick Scribner Foundation recently celebrated the successful conclusion of Widow’s Mite 5.0: “Widow’s Rejoice,” held on January 18, 2025, at the Lagos Marriott Hotel Ikeja. The theme “Widow’s Rejoice” encapsulated the event’s purpose: celebrating resilience and providing essential support. Over 300 widows received care packages containing 25 kg of rice, spices, vegetable oil, and other provisions, ensuring their sustenance for months. Attendees were warmly greeted and given a chance to share their stories, fostering a sense of community and solidarity.
Dr. Kedrick Scribner, Founder and CEO of The Kedrick Scribner Foundation Inc., engaged personally with attendees, offering hugs, handshakes, and heartfelt prayers. He made the rounds at every table, taking pictures, sharing moments of joy, and waving to all the widows and orphans present. His genuine compassion and tears of joy were a testament to the Foundation’s dedication to uplifting the lives of widows and orphans of Nigeria’s Fallen Heroes.
The Kedrick Scribner Foundation has long been instrumental in supporting the widows of The Fallen Heroes Of The Nigerian Police Force. The upcoming Widow’s Mite 6.0 event, scheduled for June 27-29, 2025, aims to renew health insurance for 700 widows and extend coverage to an additional 300 widows and orphans. This event will also feature a seminar on mental health, family dynamics, strokes, and heart health.
In January 2024, Dr. Scribner inaugurated a FREE Vocational Training Center at HEKAN Church, Mounted Troops Barracks, Ikeja, Lagos. This center offers free 6 to 12 month training in ICT, tailoring, fashion design, and bead-making, benefiting over 700 individuals, with 500 currently enrolled in ongoing programs.
Pastor Mark Burns and Dr. Kedrick Scribner
Dr. Taborn’s visit, planned for March 12-19, 2025, will include venue tours and discussions on launching a STEM conference modeled after the BEYA STEM Conference and Women of Color STEM Conference. This initiative seeks to connect Nigerians with prominent companies such as Actalent, Lockheed Martin, Medtronic, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, and Boston Scientific, which are eager to tap into global talent. The proposed conference would offer Nigerians a unique opportunity to engage with top employers through career fairs, seminars, and recruitment events.
Historically, the BEYA STEM DTX™ Conference has served as a key platform for students, professionals, and employers in the STEM fields to connect and celebrate excellence. Featuring extensive career fairs and training sessions, it has successfully placed thousands of engineers and scientists in the workforce. Establishing a similar initiative in Nigeria could unlock unprecedented career and development opportunities for aspiring professionals.
The potential establishment of a BEYA-style STEM conference in Nigeria marks a significant step in connecting Nigerian talent with international employment opportunities and educational prospects abroad. This initiative aligns with global efforts to diversify the STEM industry and empower underrepresented communities through education, mentorship, and career placement.
Dr. Kedrick Scribner expressed his enthusiasm for the conference, stating, “Nigeria is a land brimming with untapped talent, and I believe it deserves a world-class platform to showcase and cultivate that talent. Bringing the BEYA-style STEM conference to Nigeria is more than just an event—it’s about opening doors, providing opportunities, and transforming lives.”
With over 25 years of involvement with the BEYA STEM Conference, Dr. Scribner has witnessed its profound impact on fostering STEM excellence. He noted, “BEYA embodies the essence of ‘Becoming Everything You Are,’ which is vital for uplifting underrepresented communities.”
Pastor Mark Burns
Pastor Mark Burns, who delivered the keynote speech “Power To Transform Our Society” at the 2025 BEYA Stars & Stripes Award Ceremony, also emphasized the importance of STEM education. He highlighted the Trump administration’s commitment to restoring funding for BEYA, recognizing its critical role in national security and technological advancement.
Recently, Military.com reported on challenges faced by the BEYA STEM Conference following funding cuts and decreased military recruitment efforts. Pastor Burns, a prominent White House surrogate, attended the conference and engaged with students and recruiters, pledging support for expanding BEYA’s reach.
HBCU Deans and the Expansion of BEYA to Africa
Victor R. McCrary, Jr., Vice President for Research and Professor of Chemistry at the University of the District of Columbia, emphasized the importance of BEYA in attracting talent for the defense industrial base. Over 30 HBCU Deans of Engineering attended the conference, underscoring HBCUs’ vital role in producing top STEM talent.
Dr. Tyrone Taborn with Olakunle Arowolo, Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Actalent
Olakunle Arowolo, Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Actalent, highlighted the potential for expanding the BEYA-style STEM conference to Africa, particularly Nigeria. He stated, “Bringing the BEYA-style STEM conference to Africa would enhance opportunities for STEM talent to integrate into engineering and science-based industries.”
Dr. Tyrone Taborn stressed the importance of prioritizing skilled professionals in STEM fields, reflecting the need for employers to provide access, opportunity, and skill-building for top talent.
African engineers will lead in energy, fintech, minerals, and cybersecurity at the proposed STEM Conference, connecting American companies with Nigerian talent.
For more information on the Kedrick Scribner Foundation Inc. and its ongoing initiatives, visit kedrickscribnerfoundation.org. To learn more about Career Communications Group and the BEYA STEM Conference, visit blackengineer.com and ccgmag.com.
(Left) Pastor Mark Burns and (Right) Dr. Tyrone Taborn stand before hundreds of ROTC students at the 39th BEYA STEM Conference, empowering future leaders in STEM and serviceROTC students at the BEYA STEM Conference, engaging in mentorship and networking opportunities to prepare for future careers in leadership, military service, and STEMPastor Mark Burns, President Trump’s surrogate, alongside Dr. Tyrone Taborn and a distinguished group of retired Admirals and Generals at the BEYA STEM ConferenceRetired U.S. Army three-star General William E. ‘Kip’ Ward, the inaugural Commander of U.S. Africa Command, sharing valuable advice with ROTC recruits on military leadership and STEM opportunities at the BEYA STEM ConferenceROTC students at the BEYA STEM Conference, engaging in mentorship and networking opportunities to prepare for future careers in leadership, military service, and STEMAttendees lining up to enter the career fair at the 39th BEYA STEM ConferenceRetired Navy Fighter Pilot Matt Bowman, Pastor Mark Burns, and Kedrick Scribner stand alongside HBCU Deans from universities across the United States at the 39th BEYA STEM Conference, celebrating leadership, innovation, and the future of STEM education.” ucation.Dr. Tyrone Taborn discusses the transformative impact of the BEYA STEM Conference in an insightful interview with Jordan Davis, US Correspondent for the Swiss Broadcasting Corporation.Kedrick Scriber Foundation Vocational CenterKedrick Scriber Foundation Vocational Center
Kuru, Plateau State – Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Sen. Kashim Shettima, has commended Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, for his unwavering efforts in promoting peace and unity in the state.
The Vice President made this remark on Friday while representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the graduation ceremony of the Senior Executive Course 46 at the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru. The event marked the successful completion of training for 96 distinguished Nigerians.
In his address, Vice President Shettima highlighted the significance of Plateau State in fostering peaceful coexistence across the country. He urged Nigerians to embrace harmony, tolerance, and compassion as vital elements for national stability and development.
Speaking to the graduating executives, President Tinubu, through Vice President Shettima, reiterated the federal government’s dedication to equipping Nigerian youths with digital skills to drive job creation and economic growth.
“With over 60% of Nigeria’s population under the age of 35, we must harness the energy, creativity, and technological potential of our youth to drive economic innovation,” President Tinubu stated.
He emphasized that bridging the country’s digital skills gap is crucial for sustainable development. As part of the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the government has launched several initiatives, including the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy and the National Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship Policy, aimed at enhancing digital literacy and entrepreneurship.
“As we expand broadband access and develop world-class digital infrastructure, we are also fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and technological excellence among our youth,” the President added.
President Tinubu also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening NIPSS as a premier institution for policy and strategic studies. He announced plans to invest in advanced digital infrastructure, including a state-of-the-art e-library and virtual learning platforms, to enhance training and research at the institute.
As Chief Host of the event, Governor Caleb Mutfwang expressed gratitude for the federal government’s continued support for Plateau State. He called for increased training slots in the Senior Executive Course to promote greater gender inclusion in leadership and policy-making.
Earlier, NIPSS Director General, Professor Ayo Omotayo, charged the graduating participants of Course 46 to apply their newly acquired knowledge to addressing national and global challenges.
The event reinforced the federal government’s commitment to peacebuilding, digital transformation, and youth empowerment as key drivers of Nigeria’s sustainable development.
Jos, Plateau State – The Ron Butura people of central Nigeria’s Plateau State are gearing up to celebrate their rich history and traditions at the “Nahwai” 2025 annual cultural festival. The event, tagged “Song of Victory,” will take place today, March 1st, 2025, at Butura Wur Playground, 2 miles west of Bokkos town and 45 miles south of Jos, from 10 am.
The festival promises to be a spectacular display of cultural performances, featuring traditional groups from the Butura people and neighboring ethnic groups. The event will also showcase the community’s rich natural resources, including vast tin deposits and a 2,000-year-old stone coarse-way recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
As part of the festivities, residents embarked on a historic march on February 27, trekking miles south of the state capital to reconnect with their heritage. The journey culminated in a tour of the revered stone coarse-way, a testament to the community’s rich cultural heritage.
Distinguished personalities expected to attend the festival include the Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Gabriel K. Dewan; the Permanent Secretary, Government House Jos, Mrs. Helen Chundusu; and the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Hon. Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang.
The festival is a celebration of the Butura people’s resilience and determination, and it promises to be an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss it.
Rafan Dafang James Public Relations Officer Butura Development Association
A former part-time lecturer at Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education, now known as Lagos State University of Education, Kolawole Muyiwa, has been handed a life sentence for rape by the Ikeja Special Offences and Domestic Violence Court. Justice Rahman Oshodi delivered the verdict, stating that the prosecution had successfully proven the case of defilement beyond any reasonable doubt.
The incident occurred on October 11, 2021, on the college campus in Oto-Ijanikin, Lagos State. Muyiwa was charged on October 6, 2023, and initially pleaded not guilty. However, Justice Oshodi found him guilty based on the survivor’s compelling testimony and Muyiwa’s admission that he had sought a relationship with her, which he described as non-sexual.
In his ruling, Justice Oshodi emphasized the severity of the crime, noting that Muyiwa had abused his position of trust and authority as a lecturer. “You occupied a position of trust and authority, which you exploited. The victim was a student at the institution where you taught,” the judge stated. He sentenced Muyiwa to life imprisonment under Section 260 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State (2015) and ordered that he be registered as a sex offender.
During the trial, the survivor recounted the events of October 11, 2021, detailing how Muyiwa had lured her into his office under false pretenses. She explained that after she declined his request to buy him food, he asked for her assistance in marking examination scripts. Once inside the office, Muyiwa locked the doors, overpowered her, and forcibly raped her, despite her resistance and the fact that she was menstruating at the time. After the assault, Muyiwa reportedly told her, “What you refused to give me willingly, I have taken by force.”
Muyiwa, in his defense, claimed that he had only sought a platonic relationship with the survivor and denied the rape allegations. His lawyer, Dr. G.O. Erenta, argued that the survivor’s testimony was fabricated and lacked corroborating evidence. However, the judge dismissed these claims, stating that the survivor’s account was consistent with the evidence provided by the investigating police officer and other legal professionals involved in the case.
The court’s decision underscores the gravity of sexual violence and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable, particularly those in positions of authority. Muyiwa’s sentencing serves as a stern reminder of the consequences of such heinous crimes.
